WINTER CEREMONIAL DANCES 185

Sigalusndm is the rain that accompanies a thunder-storm, hence the water with which the audience was soaked.

There next comes forth an actor wearing a man’s mask and carrying in his hands a sounding-board and beating-sticks, as if he were a singer, ready to perform at a ceremony. He arranges these in place, constantly glancing back over his shoulder to- wards the enclosure, then calls, and out jumps Nixds, wearing a mask which makes his face appear long and very narrow. He shuffles his feet, moves his head from side to side, sways his body to and fro as if he were starting a spectacular dance, finally gyrates wildly for a very short period, without accom- paniment from the man who preceded him, and then goes back to the enclosure instead of circling the fire. The apparent singer picks up his equipment and follows his principal out of sight. AnoVikwoisaix explains that Nixps is a most spectacular supernatural dancer, who was unwilling to give an exhibition of his full skill on this occasion.

Meanwhile preparations have been made for the second appearance of Thunder. The large mask is so heavy and con- stricts the breath to such an extent that very few men are strong enough to bear it for more than two dances around the fire. The first wearer has now transferred his disguise to a second man of about the same build, and when the matting is again drawn aside, it is to disclose Thunder standing on his raised box as before. Often a few variations are introduced; instead of extending his arms to attract his power, he may simply revolve with waving arms and turning head. When ready, he signals to those with drums and beating-sticks, then jumps down with a crash which is echoed by all the noise- making contrivances in the house. Thunder dances around the fire much as upon his first appearance, and inhales strength from the smoke of the central fire before returning to the raised box. He receives the rattle containing smouldering bark, and once more circles the house; after that he withdraws and the matting is pulled into place. Sigalusném comes forth and drenches the audience with water, but 40°likwotsaix does not